Do you need a special tap for Nitro?

Answered by Rodney Landry

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that when it comes to Nitro beers, a special tap is indeed necessary to achieve that smooth and creamy mouthfeel that we all love. Nitrogen, being largely insoluble in liquid, requires a different dispensing method compared to traditional carbonated beers.

One of the key factors that contribute to the unique texture of Nitro beers is the use of nitrogen gas instead of carbon dioxide during the carbonation process. This nitrogen gas creates smaller bubbles, which gives the a velvety and smooth mouthfeel. However, nitrogen is less soluble in liquid compared to carbon dioxide, which means that it doesn't dissolve easily and requires some assistance to pour properly.

This is where the special tap equipment, known as a restrictor plate, comes into play. The restrictor plate is a small piece of equipment that is placed inside the tap faucet. It contains tiny holes or slits that force the beer to pass through before it lands in the glass. These small holes create turbulence, which helps to dissolve the nitrogen gas and create the desired creamy texture.

I have personally worked with Nitro beers and have seen the difference that a restrictor plate can make. Without the restrictor plate, the beer tends to pour flat and lacks that rich and creamy texture that Nitro beers are known for. It's like comparing a regular carbonated beer to a Nitro beer side by side – the difference is quite noticeable.

In addition to the restrictor plate, it's also important to note that Nitro beers are typically served using a specific type of tap system called a “beer gas” system. This system combines nitrogen and carbon dioxide gases in a specific ratio to achieve the desired carbonation and texture. The use of this specific gas blend further enhances the creamy mouthfeel of Nitro beers.

To summarize, a special tap with a restrictor plate is indeed necessary to pour Nitro beers properly and achieve that thick and creamy mouthfeel. The restrictor plate helps to dissolve the nitrogen gas and create smaller bubbles, resulting in a velvety texture. Additionally, using a beer gas system with a specific blend of nitrogen and carbon dioxide gases further enhances the overall experience of enjoying a Nitro beer.